electric/hybrid

Harley-Davidson Invests in Electric Vehicle Company

Iconic American motorcycle maker Harley-Davidson said Thursday it is collaborating with Alta Motors on a new electric bike.

Harley-Davidson previously said it is committed to aggressively investing in electric vehicle technology and has announced the planned release of its first electric motorcycle in 2019.

“Earlier this year, as part of our 10-year strategy, we reiterated our commitment to build the next generation of Harley-Davidson riders, in part, by aggressively investing in electric vehicle technology,” said Harley-Davidson President and CEO Matt Levatich in a written statement.

“Alta has demonstrated innovation and expertise in EV and their objectives align closely with ours. We each have strengths and capabilities that will be mutually beneficial as we work together to develop cutting-edge electric motorcycles,” Levatich said.

Since its founding, Alta Motors, headquartered in Brisbane, California, has focused on the development of lightweight electric vehicles.

Harley-Davidson said did not go into specifics about the collaboration on Thursday, saying only that the two companies will collaborate on electric motorcycle technology and new product development.

“Riders are just beginning to understand the combined benefits of EV today, and our technology continues to progress,” said Marc Fenigstein, Alta Motors chief product officer and co-founder, in the same written statement.

“We believe electric motorcycles are the future, and that American companies have an opportunity to lead that future. It’s incredibly exciting that Harley-Davidson, synonymous with motorcycle leadership, shares that vision and we’re thrilled to collaborate with them,” Fenigstein said.

Levatich said Harley-Davidson believes "EV is where global mobility is headed" and that the technology "holds great appeal for existing riders as well as opportunity to bring new riders into the sport.”

“We intend to be the world leader in the electrification of motorcycles and, at the same time, remain true to our gas and oil roots by continuing to produce a broad portfolio of motorcycles that appeal to all types of riders around the world,” he said.